Just finished putting together some gifs from that game. It's something I hope to do throughout the season, especially with the prospects action since it's not something that's really out there anywhere else.

Here's Dzierkals' (#10) goal and assist, worth noting that this was his first ever game in the Q as well:

Travis Dermott and the Erie Otters started their season last night. Dermott had a pair of assists, including one on the tying goal that sent the game to overtime with just 1:15 left in the 3rd. The assist was nothing special, but his zone-entry on the shift that led to the goal sure was:

I think this was a comment on PPP but there's a pretty good chance this season of having Nylander, Marner, and Timashov lead the AHL/OHL/QMJHL in points.

Huh, I never realized that, but yeah there's definitely a decent chance of that. At the very least barring an injury (or in Nylander's case a call-up) they'll all likely be top-5 in scoring.

Yeah the interesting thing with Nylander is - if he's at a point where he's even got a shot to be top 5 in AHL scoring, is he going to realistically be left in the AHL to do that? There was an article on TLN about whether he could be the first teenage 100 pt scorer in the AHL but the counterpoint is - why would be still be down there to reach that total if he's producing points at that rate?

I think this was a comment on PPP but there's a pretty good chance this season of having Nylander, Marner, and Timashov lead the AHL/OHL/QMJHL in points.

Huh, I never realized that, but yeah there's definitely a decent chance of that. At the very least barring an injury (or in Nylander's case a call-up) they'll all likely be top-5 in scoring.

Yeah the interesting thing with Nylander is - if he's at a point where he's even got a shot to be top 5 in AHL scoring, is he going to realistically be left in the AHL to do that? There was an article on TLN about whether he could be the first teenage 100 pt scorer in the AHL but the counterpoint is - why would be still be down there to reach that total if he's producing points at that rate?

I think this was a comment on PPP but there's a pretty good chance this season of having Nylander, Marner, and Timashov lead the AHL/OHL/QMJHL in points.

Huh, I never realized that, but yeah there's definitely a decent chance of that. At the very least barring an injury (or in Nylander's case a call-up) they'll all likely be top-5 in scoring.

Yeah the interesting thing with Nylander is - if he's at a point where he's even got a shot to be top 5 in AHL scoring, is he going to realistically be left in the AHL to do that? There was an article on TLN about whether he could be the first teenage 100 pt scorer in the AHL but the counterpoint is - why would be still be down there to reach that total if he's producing points at that rate?

But what would be the point of dragging him into the inevitable tire fire that will be the 2015-16 Toronto Maple Leafs season post-deadline, and wasting 1 ELC year/games towards UFA?

But what would be the point of dragging him into the inevitable tire fire that will be the 2015-16 Toronto Maple Leafs season post-deadline, and wasting 1 ELC year/games towards UFA?

Because while you can design a team to be bad in the off-season, in-season you probably can't outright look like you're intentionally making decisions to lose games and still be able to preach what you want to the players you have.

But what would be the point of dragging him into the inevitable tire fire that will be the 2015-16 Toronto Maple Leafs season post-deadline, and wasting 1 ELC year/games towards UFA?

Because while you can design a team to be bad in the off-season, in-season you probably can't outright look like you're intentionally making decisions to lose games and still be able to preach what you want to the players you have.

I wouldn't suggest that keeping a 19 year old in the AHL would be seen as intentionally making decisions to lose games.

Healthy scratching him in the NHL could likely be seen as that, but certainly not exposing a teenager to what will likely (hopefully) be a bit of a disaster.

But what would be the point of dragging him into the inevitable tire fire that will be the 2015-16 Toronto Maple Leafs season post-deadline, and wasting 1 ELC year/games towards UFA?

Because while you can design a team to be bad in the off-season, in-season you probably can't outright look like you're intentionally making decisions to lose games and still be able to preach what you want to the players you have.

I wouldn't suggest that keeping a 19 year old in the AHL would be seen as intentionally making decisions to lose games.

Healthy scratching him in the NHL could likely be seen as that, but certainly not exposing a teenager to what will likely (hopefully) be a bit of a disaster.

I see them bringing in the Carricks and Leivos who have been in the system longer ahead of Nylander without any difficulty justifying that decision. Wasn't Brown tearing up the AHL last season?

I wouldn't suggest that keeping a 19 year old in the AHL would be seen as intentionally making decisions to lose games.

Healthy scratching him in the NHL could likely be seen as that, but certainly not exposing a teenager to what will likely (hopefully) be a bit of a disaster.

I think that if you're looking around post-deadline for people to promote out of the AHL once spots open up and you have someone who is dominating the AHL to the extent we're talking about(remember the idea here is that Nylander is scoring at a league-leading or near league-leading pace) and you pass on Nylander for someone like Casey Bailey or Josh Leivo then it sends a pretty clear message about what the organizational priorities are. The team couldn't hide behind "making sure Nylander is ready" either if, again, he's dominating the AHL so thoroughly.

Even teams as thoroughly in the tank as Arizona and Buffalo last year gave their better AHL prospects call-ups and they didn't have anyone playing at the level of what we're supposing Nylander might. You can't preach a meritocracy and then ignore results like that.

I see them bringing in the Carricks and Leivos who have been in the system longer ahead of Nylander without any difficulty justifying that decision. Wasn't Brown tearing up the AHL last season?

Last year's team never was really in the situation where they had to promote AHL guys to fill in regular NHL roster spots. Players like Sill and Lindstrom were brought in for essentially that precise purpose. They might go that route again this year but if not and if ideally there are at least a half-dozen spots open up post-deadline then I think you would need to justify promoting players who are nowhere as good.

I see them bringing in the Carricks and Leivos who have been in the system longer ahead of Nylander without any difficulty justifying that decision. Wasn't Brown tearing up the AHL last season?

Last year's team never was really in the situation where they had to promote AHL guys to fill in regular NHL roster spots. Players like Sill and Lindstrom were brought in for essentially that precise purpose. They might go that route again this year but if not and if ideally there are at least a half-dozen spots open up post-deadline then I think you would need to justify promoting players who are nowhere as good.

Definitely depends on which spots open up and don't get filled with the trade returns. There is a good chance we will be looking at at least a half dozen moves. I agree with what you say re: meritocracy as well, but continue to hope they protect Nylander for the full season.

Definitely depends on which spots open up and don't get filled with the trade returns. There is a good chance we will be looking at at least a half dozen moves. I agree with what you say re: meritocracy as well, but continue to hope they protect Nylander for the full season.

I think that if you're counting on Nylander to play a significant role on the team in the 16-17 season there could very well be real value in getting him 15-20 NHL games this year and exposing him to the difference between the AHL and NHL. Especially if he dominates the AHL but still needs to work at what he needs to succeed in the NHL.

Definitely depends on which spots open up and don't get filled with the trade returns. There is a good chance we will be looking at at least a half dozen moves. I agree with what you say re: meritocracy as well, but continue to hope they protect Nylander for the full season.

I think that if you're counting on Nylander to play a significant role on the team in the 16-17 season there could very well be real value in getting him 15-20 NHL games this year and exposing him to the difference between the AHL and NHL. Especially if he dominates the AHL but still needs to work at what he needs to succeed in the NHL.

That seems to be similar to what they did with Nyquist in Detroit for a couple of seasons. Three straight seasons of ppg production in the AHL with 15 or so games in the NHL.

I think this was a comment on PPP but there's a pretty good chance this season of having Nylander, Marner, and Timashov lead the AHL/OHL/QMJHL in points.

Huh, I never realized that, but yeah there's definitely a decent chance of that. At the very least barring an injury (or in Nylander's case a call-up) they'll all likely be top-5 in scoring.

Yeah the interesting thing with Nylander is - if he's at a point where he's even got a shot to be top 5 in AHL scoring, is he going to realistically be left in the AHL to do that? There was an article on TLN about whether he could be the first teenage 100 pt scorer in the AHL but the counterpoint is - why would be still be down there to reach that total if he's producing points at that rate?

Because the Leafs need to lose hockey games?

But I think the reason there's been no 100 point AHL scorers at that age is because if they're that good they're not spending the whole season in the AHL. At some point the Leafs needing to lose can't come at the expense of the development of players. Even terrible teams who are bottoming out play their young players if they're clearly ready for the NHL. Just a question on what's best for his development, because while the Leafs need to lose, they also need Nylander to develop.

Not sure about the amount we will lose this year, but I would think this is the last year they will keep Nylander, Kapanen and Brown, down. Also some of the young D will need to move up for 16-17. At least Percy and Loov if they don't make the squad this year. So agreed with Potvin, we need at some point to let these guys play, if they are ready.

But I think the reason there's been no 100 point AHL scorers at that age is because if they're that good they're not spending the whole season in the AHL. At some point the Leafs needing to lose can't come at the expense of the development of players. Even terrible teams who are bottoming out play their young players if they're clearly ready for the NHL. Just a question on what's best for his development, because while the Leafs need to lose, they also need Nylander to develop.

I don't think an extra 4 months in the AHL is going to delay his development. And really, he's only 19, and most kids his age are in junior.

Though I do think that if he blows the doors off this AHL season, they'll have a hard time keeping him off of the Leafs' 2016-2017 opening night roster.

But I think the reason there's been no 100 point AHL scorers at that age is because if they're that good they're not spending the whole season in the AHL. At some point the Leafs needing to lose can't come at the expense of the development of players. Even terrible teams who are bottoming out play their young players if they're clearly ready for the NHL. Just a question on what's best for his development, because while the Leafs need to lose, they also need Nylander to develop.

I don't think an extra 4 months in the AHL is going to delay his development. And really, he's only 19, and most kids his age are in junior.

Though I do think that if he blows the doors off this AHL season, they'll have a hard time keeping him off of the Leafs' 2016-2017 opening night roster.

A comparable might be Jason Spezza. He was playing in the AHL in the 2002 - 2003 season. He would have been 19 that year. I am not sure why he was allowed to play in the AHL. I guess the rule was different back then. Here is his season:

2002-03 Binghamton Senators AHL 43 22 32 54

So he was on a 100 point pace, but he was called up by the Senators late in the season. Now the Senators were pretty good that year and they weren't trying to bottom out, so that makes the scenario a different. I believe though that at the start of the year the Senators had said that they would like to keep Spezza in the AHL for the year to work on his defensive play.

Mitch Marner made his debut in London last night and put up a goal and an assist. Unfortunatley because of the depth on the roster JJ Piccinich sat out after putting up 4 points in his first two games with the Knights. Stephen Desrocher and Martins Dzierkals are off to good starts and Andreas Johnson continues to score well in the Swedish league.

Pierre Engvall is still playing in the minor division in Sweden but scored his first two professional league points.

Unfortunatley because of the depth on the roster JJ Piccinich sat out after putting up 4 points in his first two games with the Knights.

He might be hurt, I know he was suffering through some stuff earlier. Would be weird for him to leave BU after they have their 2 best players leave only to go to another team whose line-up is too deep for him. I mean it's not like it was a surprise that London got Marner and Dvorak back.

Unfortunatley because of the depth on the roster JJ Piccinich sat out after putting up 4 points in his first two games with the Knights.

He might be hurt, I know he was suffering through some stuff earlier. Would be weird for him to leave BU after they have their 2 best players leave only to go to another team whose line-up is too deep for him. I mean it's not like it was a surprise that London got Marner and Dvorak back.

Banged up a little but he's sitting because other guys have sat out and the defense is a bit of a mess right now. They are running with 7 defensemen right now trying to sort out who they can trust to play and where they need to make moves to shore up the blueline for a deep run.

They have a guy like Ryan Valentini playing Junior B right now who should probably be in the OHL at this point. Too much of a good thing in the forward ranks at this point with a lot of front end guys deserving of playing 20 minutes a night and guys are going to miss out on opportunities. Piccinich won't be a guy out of the lineup often but he's going to miss out on some opportunities and might not factor in on the PP depending on how Marner and Dvorak are used.

Mitch Marner with a pair of goals in London's 7-2 win over the Soo (sorry Potvin):

(http://giant.gfycat.com/CreamySmallGenet.gif)

(http://giant.gfycat.com/GaseousWindyAmericanshorthair.gif)

Those are in fact two different goals. Marner also added an assist on a J.J. Piccinich goal. Those two have been on a line with potential top-5 2016 pick Matthew Tkachuk. Failing a Matthews pick at 1st overall Tkachuk could definitely be a Leafs target come draft time.

Marner has 5 goals and 5 assists in 7 games. Piccinich has 6 goals and 5 assists in 11 games.

Nielsen and Desrocher are having standout seasons on defense so far this year. Johnson is continuing to put up good offensive numbers in the Swedish league. The College kids really haven't done much as of yet.

3 former Leafs prospects in the top-10 in scoring: Josh Holden, Jarkko Immonen, and Chris Didomenico. Er, not to take anything away from what Matthews has done there, it's still amazing. He's leading the entire league in goals too.

It's a bit of a downer that Team Sweden is likely going to snub Timashov for a spot with their WJC squad (presumably because he's not Swedish by descent). It would've been some kind of fun to preview him and Nylander together.

I've seen most of the Marlies games this year and he's struggled a little.

He has three goals for three points in eight games, I think he is trying to to figure out the smaller ice and his part in the defensive structure they want to play.

He has a great shot and shows flashes of why he's so highly regarded as a prospect, I expect he will break out a little fairly soon. He's also a guy that's suffering a little due to the Marlies depth, on most other teams I think he'd see a lot more ice that would allow him to work things out a bit quicker.

I can't find he ice-time stats, but from what I've seen, he has been playing more of a 3rd line role, he'll likely get more opportunity with the loss of Brown for an extended period.

More Timashov: https://streamable.com/sexjBreakaway goal to cap off a 2G3A night. 35 points (10G25A) in 19 games played, with points in all but 4 games. QMJHL website is pretty good (Timashov's profile (http://theqmjhl.ca/players/13016/00))

Martins Dzierkals sitting at 27 pts (12G15A) in 18 games. Held off the scoresheet only 1 game. (Dzierkal's profile (http://theqmjhl.ca/players/14967/00))

Andrew Nielsen now has 20 points in 17 games. He's match last seasons' 7 goals and is 4 points away from a new career high.

In 2005 he was Dion Phaneuf's waterboy. In 2012-2013 he was playing Midget AA hockey. In 2013-2014 he was playing Midget AAA hockey. In 2014-2015 he wasn't even listed by CSS in their preliminary draft rankings.

I really like what he is doing this year. I have only seen two of his games but he looks really good.

All true Luncheon Meat…worth watching Arn as you may notice one or two standouts that hopefully Hunter will go after next draft. Last year when I watched Boston playing I noticed Evan Rodrigues and thought this guy is a standout, now he is a bright prospect with the Sabres and the thing is the kid is from T.O. wouldn't have been a wasted pick. Not complainng at all about the group we did get. Timashv looking like a steal at his round.

Cheers for looking! I'm very excited for the tournament, not seen much NCAA hockey and never seen any in person so looking forward to it. Hopefully someone I see will make it into the Leafs system perhaps..

Pity Marner can't play with the Marlies or in Europe next year. Its Leafs or the OHL and I think after this season he has nothing to prove in the OHL. I just don't want Edmonton syndrome happening to this kid. I want him to bulk up on his upper body strength and grow into a man's body that can handle the rigours of NHL play.A bit of a conundrum really as what do you do with him?

Pity Marner can't play with the Marlies or in Europe next year. Its Leafs or the OHL and I think after this season he has nothing to prove in the OHL. I just don't want Edmonton syndrome happening to this kid. I want him to bulk up on his upper body strength and grow into a man's body that can handle the rigours of NHL play.A bit of a conundrum really as what do you do with him?

I don't see the Leafs rushing him to the NHL. He's a special player but I really think he looked a little out of place during camp and pre-season this year. I think another year of playing center in the OHL would do him well if that's the only other option.

Agreed, he definetly isn't NHL ready (now) but is so dominating in the OHL, I mean 31points in 15 games, that you are talking about the next to two entire seasons there. I guess this will be the only option unless he comes to camp bulked up and seemingly ready to make the leap.I wish he could play with the Marlies next year, perhaps it time for them to look at their rules or have exeception clauses. Sort of like they do for gifted students in the school system!

Pity Marner can't play with the Marlies or in Europe next year. Its Leafs or the OHL and I think after this season he has nothing to prove in the OHL. I just don't want Edmonton syndrome happening to this kid. I want him to bulk up on his upper body strength and grow into a man's body that can handle the rigours of NHL play.A bit of a conundrum really as what do you do with him?

I don't see the Leafs rushing him to the NHL. He's a special player but I really think he looked a little out of place during camp and pre-season this year. I think another year of playing center in the OHL would do him well if that's the only other option.

Pity Marner can't play with the Marlies or in Europe next year. Its Leafs or the OHL and I think after this season he has nothing to prove in the OHL. I just don't want Edmonton syndrome happening to this kid. I want him to bulk up on his upper body strength and grow into a man's body that can handle the rigours of NHL play.A bit of a conundrum really as what do you do with him?

I don't see the Leafs rushing him to the NHL. He's a special player but I really think he looked a little out of place during camp and pre-season this year. I think another year of playing center in the OHL would do him well if that's the only other option.

getting sent back to junior twice seemed to work for Max Domi

While I don't think that's a terrible call, Marner looks significantly more offensively gifted than Domi did at the same age.

Domi draft year ppg: 1.35Next season/s: 1.52, 1.78

Marner draft year ppg: 2.0 Next season: 2.06 (only played 15 games so far)

For those that follow the OHL relatively closely, how good is this Alex Debrincat (http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/roster/show/id/26731) kid in Erie?

40 points with 27 goals through 19 games seems incredible, I note that McKenzie didn't have him in the top 21 in his 2016 draft rankings, is this due to him only being 5'7"?

Does he look like a legit top tier prospect or one of those guys who can dominate the minors but whose skills might not translate?

I imagine there are some concerns about his skills translating due to size and strength. As much as the game has opened up for smaller players to be able to succeed, the old mindset is still very much in force.

Pity Marner can't play with the Marlies or in Europe next year. Its Leafs or the OHL and I think after this season he has nothing to prove in the OHL. I just don't want Edmonton syndrome happening to this kid. I want him to bulk up on his upper body strength and grow into a man's body that can handle the rigours of NHL play.A bit of a conundrum really as what do you do with him?

I don't see the Leafs rushing him to the NHL. He's a special player but I really think he looked a little out of place during camp and pre-season this year. I think another year of playing center in the OHL would do him well if that's the only other option.

getting sent back to junior twice seemed to work for Max Domi

While I don't think that's a terrible call, Marner looks significantly more offensively gifted than Domi did at the same age.

Domi draft year ppg: 1.35Next season/s: 1.52, 1.78

Marner draft year ppg: 2.0 Next season: 2.06 (only played 15 games so far)

I have no doubt that Marner could be and probably will be better offensively than Domi...he also has the body of a 12 year old, which may not be ready to be smoked by NHL defenseman. Another year in junior may just buy him some time to grow physically

Pity Marner can't play with the Marlies or in Europe next year. Its Leafs or the OHL and I think after this season he has nothing to prove in the OHL. I just don't want Edmonton syndrome happening to this kid. I want him to bulk up on his upper body strength and grow into a man's body that can handle the rigours of NHL play.A bit of a conundrum really as what do you do with him?

I don't see the Leafs rushing him to the NHL. He's a special player but I really think he looked a little out of place during camp and pre-season this year. I think another year of playing center in the OHL would do him well if that's the only other option.

getting sent back to junior twice seemed to work for Max Domi

While I don't think that's a terrible call, Marner looks significantly more offensively gifted than Domi did at the same age.

Domi draft year ppg: 1.35Next season/s: 1.52, 1.78

Marner draft year ppg: 2.0 Next season: 2.06 (only played 15 games so far)

I have no doubt that Marner could be and probably will be better offensively than Domi...he also has the body of a 12 year old, which may not be ready to be smoked by NHL defenseman. Another year in junior may just buy him some time to grow physically

Nylander was 169lbs when drafted, the most recent numbers, just over a year post draft, have him at 190lbs.

Marner is the same height and was drafted at 164lbs, let's see what size he is when he reports to camp before making any judgements there.

Sorry hooked on Paris stuff. Can't get my brain off CNN. Touched me driving to AZ thru the Northern U.S. today all the flags at half staff. Waiting to see more of the world response and if the free world will actually do something. I am even worried about taking my son to see the Leafs play the Yote in December on school break.A lot of lunny folks in the Sunbelt as well.

Sorry hooked on Paris stuff. Can't get my brain off CNN. Touched me driving to AZ thru the Northern U.S. today all the flags at half staff. Waiting to see more of the world response and if the free world will actually do something. I am even worried about taking my son to see the Leafs play the Yote in December on school break.A lot of lunny folks in the Sunbelt as well.

The reaction at the England v France football/soccer match last night was really touching. As for how the world reacts, well seem the French have been quick to increase the bombings and it looks like they've got some of the suspects from Friday's attacks already.

I'm a little surprised that this tournament doesn't get more attention. Seems like the players take it pretty seriously and it's a really neat concept.

I really like what the OHL did this year. They made it a split squad series and had two completely different lineups for their two games. It's a competitive series, but it's also a bit of a showcase for the draft too. Making sure some of the undrafted kids get into the series instead of just loading it up with 18/19 year olds was a nice touch.

Nielsen intrigues me. Even at the draft, he just kind of flew under my radar. He now has equalled his goals (7), assists (17) and points (24) totals from all of last year in only 23 games (vs. 59 last year). He seems to be such a late bloomer that it's really hard to tell what his ceiling might be.

Man it sucks that they can't delay Marner getting to the NHL by a year. I know they could, but it might not be in his best interests. The excitement that I have about watching Nylander next year just keeps building. It would be great if during next year, I got to watch Nylander play in the NHL, but still had that excitement building over a player like Marner.

I suppose Kane and Toews were rookies in the same year. Chicago still seems pretty excited.

Man it sucks that they can't delay Marner getting to the NHL by a year. I know they could, but it might not be in his best interests. The excitement that I have about watching Nylander next year just keeps building. It would be great if during next year, I got to watch Nylander play in the NHL, but still had that excitement building over a player like Marner.

I suppose Kane and Toews were rookies in the same year. Chicago still seems pretty excited.

So the options next year for Marner is either Junior or NHL right? Could he be loaned to play in Europe similar to what Matthews is doing or does his NHL contract not allow for that? Would that even be a good idea?

Honestly, if you go back over the last 10 years of the draft...we better hope that Marner is in the NHL next year because the resume of top 5 picks who weren't in the NHL after one season isn't that great.

Man it sucks that they can't delay Marner getting to the NHL by a year. I know they could, but it might not be in his best interests. The excitement that I have about watching Nylander next year just keeps building. It would be great if during next year, I got to watch Nylander play in the NHL, but still had that excitement building over a player like Marner.

I suppose Kane and Toews were rookies in the same year. Chicago still seems pretty excited.

So the options next year for Marner is either Junior or NHL right? Could he be loaned to play in Europe similar to what Matthews is doing or does his NHL contract not allow for that? Would that even be a good idea?

How many questions can I ask in one post?

He can be loaned out to Europe if the team wants, it'd be highly unusual though. I actually brought up this scenario a few days ago, didn't get much traction then as I recall.

Having him play for a Frolunda or Modo does sound intriguing if they want to keep him out of the NHL.

Man it sucks that they can't delay Marner getting to the NHL by a year. I know they could, but it might not be in his best interests. The excitement that I have about watching Nylander next year just keeps building. It would be great if during next year, I got to watch Nylander play in the NHL, but still had that excitement building over a player like Marner.

I suppose Kane and Toews were rookies in the same year. Chicago still seems pretty excited.

So the options next year for Marner is either Junior or NHL right? Could he be loaned to play in Europe similar to what Matthews is doing or does his NHL contract not allow for that? Would that even be a good idea?

How many questions can I ask in one post?

He can be loaned out to Europe if the team wants, it'd be highly unusual though. I actually brought up this scenario a few days ago, didn't get much traction then as I recall.

Having him play for a Frolunda or Modo does sound intriguing if they want to keep him out of the NHL.

It seems like from what I've read that he'll be too good for junior but not quite ready physically for the NHL.

He can be loaned out to Europe if the team wants, it'd be highly unusual though. I actually brought up this scenario a few days ago, didn't get much traction then as I recall.

Having him play for a Frolunda or Modo does sound intriguing if they want to keep him out of the NHL.

Except I think the problem there is that if Marner is more or less ready to play in the NHL from a physical perspective(play, mind, not dominate) then it's hard to see the upside in sending him to play with worse teammates, not under the eye of our very expensive coaching/front office staff and where his ice time will be determined by a European team that, presumably, is primarily interested in winning their games.

He can be loaned out to Europe if the team wants, it'd be highly unusual though. I actually brought up this scenario a few days ago, didn't get much traction then as I recall.

Having him play for a Frolunda or Modo does sound intriguing if they want to keep him out of the NHL.

Except I think the problem there is that if Marner is more or less ready to play in the NHL from a physical perspective(play, mind, not dominate) then it's hard to see the upside in sending him to play with worse teammates, not under the eye of our very expensive coaching/front office staff and where his ice time will be determined by a European team that, presumably, is primarily interested in winning their games.

If he was loaned to the SEL for the season, could he be recalled ala Nylander to play on the Marlies after a half season?

My thinking on it was that he might be too good for the OHL but maybe not quite ready for the grind of the NHL. The SEL would represent an opportunity to play against men, but in a league where it may not be as physically taxing.

I'm sure they'd give him plenty of ice the same as Nylander, but your point about the benefit of the coaching staff in Toronto is very good.

I'm sure they'd give him plenty of ice the same as Nylander, but your point about the benefit of the coaching staff in Toronto is very good.

I'm not sure about that. Nylander earned his ice-time there by virtue of scoring at a rate that established himself as one of the better players on the team. How sure are we that Marner would be one of the better players on a SEL team if we're also assuming he couldn't even hack it in the NHL to the point that even being around would ultimately be bad for his development? What if he doesn't hit the ground running? Lots of good NHL players have to be scratched as young players. Do we want a Swedish organization/coaches making those sorts of decisions?

Likewise, Marner would face some day-to-day challenges in Sweden/Europe that Nylander didn't, namely adjusting to a foreign country and unfamiliar surroundings. It strikes me like it presents just as many, if not more, difficulties for a young player.

I guess it just seems to me like there's such a narrow sliver of upside to sending him to Europe when keeping him around and maybe doing what the Oilers did with Draisatl last year seems like it has the best of both worlds. The OHL can be a failsafe option if he establishes he can't play in the NHL

The OHL is eliminating the goaltending rule that a 20 year goaltender counts as one of your three overage players. Good move.

I know that the rules are in place to make it so that the OHL doesn't have exclusively feeder program status, but it does bother me that the rules are any player under 20 must play in the NHL or OHL. I don't mind the year after being drafted rule, but if a player has competed 3 (or even 4 OHL seasons if they were a failed exemption status player) they shoudn't be forced to play in a league they aren't appropriate for. It's junior hockey. Players bypass age requirements to skip inferior leagues when they are above the talent level of the league. Hell, the exemption status program allows a 15 year old to play in the OHL. Mandating adults to stay in a kids league is dumb.

I guess it just seems to me like there's such a narrow sliver of upside to sending him to Europe when keeping him around and maybe doing what the Oilers did with Draisatl last year seems like it has the best of both worlds. The OHL can be a failsafe option if he establishes he can't play in the NHL

Yeah, I agree. As far as I'm concerned, the 10 game mark for Marner next season doesn't really matter. If he's good enough, he'll be up for the whole season, any way. If he's not, burning a year of his contract just means his next one probably comes in a little cheaper. The important milestone is game 40. If he crosses that, it counts as an accrued season towards free agency, and it would mean he'd become a UFA at 26 instead of 27. Even though it's only a single season difference, it's enough for the team to set the decision point before he plays that 40th game of the season.

I guess it just seems to me like there's such a narrow sliver of upside to sending him to Europe when keeping him around and maybe doing what the Oilers did with Draisatl last year seems like it has the best of both worlds. The OHL can be a failsafe option if he establishes he can't play in the NHL

Yeah, I agree. As far as I'm concerned, the 10 game mark for Marner next season doesn't really matter. If he's good enough, he'll be up for the whole season, any way. If he's not, burning a year of his contract just means his next one probably comes in a little cheaper. The important milestone is game 40. If he crosses that, it counts as an accrued season towards free agency, and it would mean he'd become a UFA at 26 instead of 27. Even though it's only a single season difference, it's enough for the team to set the decision point before he plays that 40th game of the season.

Yeah, I saw McKenzie use this as a reference point for when Nylander would be potentially recalled too, he speculated it'd be early January in that case.

Dermott is the 2nd highest scoring dman in the OHL, so I don't know if I'd call him a longshot. He's probably in that middle group that's not a lock but has a legit shot of making the team.

There's probably only 3 locks on the blue line I think. The only returning blueliner (Joe Hicketts) and the two 2014 1st rounders (Haydn Fleury and Travis Sanheim). This group doesn't seem to be a particularly dominant collection of defencemen. I think that Dermott has a pretty good chance of making it, even if it's only as the #7 guy.

Pretty surprising to see that Jeremy Roy wasn't invited to camp. I looked up how he's been doing and he's missed about 2 weeks with an injury but he's set to return from that very soon. Had 23 points in 20 games prior to that.

Ho-Sang not getting an invite either. That head case reputation is going to kill his career. So much individual talent, so little brain.

You know, I was a Ho-Sang supporter at his draft but he's in his draft+2 season right now and he's not exactly tearing the OHL apart or anything. This season he's currently at a 1.36 point-per-game pace. He was at 1.35 in his D+1 season and 1.27 in his draft year.

At his age I'd just expect more from him right now. Nylander's brother is currently outscoring him as a rookie 2 years younger.

Y'know... Nylander was born in Canada, and while he has traditionally played for Sweden, it would be quite something to see him play on Team Canada, alongside Marner.

In any case, Nylander doesn't really have anything to prove at the Junior level. I think it would be nice for Kapanen to go (free up some Marlie space for a couple of weeks, give him some time back at home) as he has a bit to prove after last year's showing. I'm hoping Sweden brings in Timashov, but doesn't sound likely at this time.

Was there word on Timashov about it recently? I thought he had a good shot to make that team.

A lot of people took the Swedish delegation that came over to scout CHL players not going to one of his games as a snub. They delegation actually clarified that the trip was meant to scout players who had not played much internationally before and who they weren't as familiar with.

He still has a good shot at making the team, he's close to making himself undeniable and if he doesn't go it'll likely be for reasons other than his ability.

PPP with a bit more on the story: http://www.pensionplanpuppets.com/toronto-marlies/2015/12/2/9834880/report-william-nylander-likely-to-play-for-team-sweden-at-world

Sounds like Bill Daly also stepped in and requested that teams release certain prospects. Sweden is now getting Nylander, Kylington, and Adrian Kempe from the AHL. They'll have a pretty good team this year, solid medal contenders.

Why would the league care? And, more to the point, why wouldn't the Leafs tell them to shove it?

I could see the league caring more about their relationships with the IIHF and individual nations over their relationships with AHL teams. So as long as it's pretty clear those eligible-players won't be getting a whiff of NHL time during that period I understand why they'd make that request.

As for your second question, well who knows? I'm of the opinion though that playing in the WJC would be beneficial to Nylander (and Kapanen).

PPP with a bit more on the story: http://www.pensionplanpuppets.com/toronto-marlies/2015/12/2/9834880/report-william-nylander-likely-to-play-for-team-sweden-at-world

Sounds like Bill Daly also stepped in and requested that teams release certain prospects. Sweden is now getting Nylander, Kylington, and Adrian Kempe from the AHL. They'll have a pretty good team this year, solid medal contenders.

Just so we are clear....is the NHL going to "oblige" teams to release their players for the Olympics then?

Marner is also now tied for the league lead in scoring with Christian Dvorak, passing Alex DiBrinicat last night. Marner will play his last game for the Knights before heading off to the World Juniors camp today against Guelph.

Jeremy Bracco wasn't invited to the American WJC camp. Reminder: he set NTDP records last year. They also didn't invite Conor Garland, an Arizona 5th round pick last year. Garland has 69 points in 28 games in the QMJHL so far this season. Both are considered very small, Garland is listed as 5'8" 163lbs, but if the Americans have a tough time scoring this time out these two omissions will look huge.

Jeremy Bracco wasn't invited to the American WJC camp. Reminder: he set NTDP records last year. They also didn't invite Conor Garland, an Arizona 5th round pick last year. Garland has 69 points in 28 games in the QMJHL so far this season. Both are considered very small, Garland is listed as 5'8" 163lbs, but if the Americans have a tough time scoring this time out these two omissions will look huge.

It looks like they're using the tournament as a showcase for their NTDP and NCAA guys eh?

It looks like they're using the tournament as a showcase for their NTDP and NCAA guys eh?

They are going to look really stupid.

Alex DeBrincat has been invited, and Christian Dvorak and Matt Tkachuk are basically locks as well (the roster isn't officially being announced until this morning).

I've been looking into their projected rosters a little more since seeing the Bracco news, the Americans definitely have a very strong team this year. Especially on the wings. It seems pretty likely that both of their wings will be comprised entirely of 1st rounders (or future 1st rounders in Tkachuk's case). I'm still a little surprised that he didn't at least get invited to the camp, but he had a tougher time making this team than I thought.

And Kapanen will be joining the Finnish squad right before the tournament.

That'll be it for the Leafs. Marner, Nylander, and Kapanen will be go-to guys on their respective teams. Timashov and Dermott still need to get past the preliminary roster-stage. Dzierkals will play for Latvia in the division below the main one.

Lindgren and Korostelev were both extreme long-shots to make their teams, maybe next year.

And Kapanen will be joining the Finnish squad right before the tournament.

That'll be it for the Leafs. Marner, Nylander, and Kapanen will be go-to guys on their respective teams. Timashov and Dermott still need to get past the preliminary roster-stage. Dzierkals will play for Latvia in the division below the main one.

Lindgren and Korostelev were both extreme long-shots to make their teams, maybe next year.

5 would be a respectable number, if both Timashov and Dermott make it, especially considering the calibre of the other 3 guys that are going. It woudl be nice for a rebuilding team to have a few more, but the Leafs have really just started getting serious about it. Hopefully, in the next few years, we'll see that number jump.

And Kapanen will be joining the Finnish squad right before the tournament.

That'll be it for the Leafs. Marner, Nylander, and Kapanen will be go-to guys on their respective teams. Timashov and Dermott still need to get past the preliminary roster-stage. Dzierkals will play for Latvia in the division below the main one.

Lindgren and Korostelev were both extreme long-shots to make their teams, maybe next year.

5 would be a respectable number, if both Timashov and Dermott make it, especially considering the calibre of the other 3 guys that are going. It woudl be nice for a rebuilding team to have a few more, but the Leafs have really just started getting serious about it. Hopefully, in the next few years, we'll see that number jump.

And although it is definitely nice to see, it's not really indicative of anything really. What was that year the Leafs sent a ton of players and only 1 or 2 ever became journeyman NHLers?

And although it is definitely nice to see, it's not really indicative of anything really. What was that year the Leafs sent a ton of players and only 1 or 2 ever became journeyman NHLers?

That one year Team Canada's defence were almost entirely Leaf prospects? It's definitely not indicative of anything, for sure. Really, what you want to see is the team having a good number of prospects that are significant contributors for the best teams in the tournament - or the clear best player on some of the lesser teams.

That one year Team Canada's defence were almost entirely Leaf prospects? It's definitely not indicative of anything, for sure. Really, what you want to see is the team having a good number of prospects that are significant contributors for the best teams in the tournament - or the clear best player on some of the lesser teams.

Wouldn't bet against both Nylander and Marner being named to the tournament ending All-star team or whatever it is they do.

And although it is definitely nice to see, it's not really indicative of anything really. What was that year the Leafs sent a ton of players and only 1 or 2 ever became journeyman NHLers?

That one year Team Canada's defence were almost entirely Leaf prospects? It's definitely not indicative of anything, for sure. Really, what you want to see is the team having a good number of prospects that are significant contributors for the best teams in the tournament - or the clear best player on some of the lesser teams.

Brendan Bell!

But yeah of course I'd rather have prospects good enough to make it than not.

Timashov is actually the one I'm most interested to observe through the tournament. I know Marner and Nylander are going to be good NHLers, but Timashov has the potential to be one of the biggest suprises of last year's draft, not just for the Leafs but maybe also overall. I have cautious high hopes for him.

And I want to see how much Dermott is able to step up and be a steady all-around defenseman for Canada.

Yeah they call it a hit to the head, but Nylander let his guard down and left himself in a really bad position to get throttled.

Why wouldn't they call it a hit to the head? He got hit in the head by the other player.

Yeah, I mean it was a terrible hit. His head was up and it was a blindside hit. The rules state you can't hit someone recklessly that would endanger their safety and that even if a player sees you you can in no way make principal contact with the head. Its just a bad, dirty hit.

He seemed to be able to get himself off the ice under his own steam. Obviously that doesn't tell us much cos it can take time for the effects to hit if there are any, but fingers crossed it's a good sign.

He seemed to be able to get himself off the ice under his own steam. Obviously that doesn't tell us much cos it can take time for the effects to hit if there are any, but fingers crossed it's a good sign.

Primary indications are that it is not all that bad, he wasnt out cold which is definitely a good thing in these kind of incidents. Hope he gets back for the quarter finals.Kind of makes me wish the Leafs didnt expose their top talent to these kind of tourneys, there are some real goons on some of these teams.

You never know with the Noggin. Look at Komarov last year after Ovechkin rang his bell, didnt look great the rest of the season and this year gangbusters. Or someone like Crosby whom seems to be about 60% of his former self after repeated concussions.

You never know with the Noggin. Look at Komarov last year after Ovechkin rang his bell, didnt look great the rest of the season and this year gangbusters. Or someone like Crosby whom seems to be about 60% of his former self after repeated concussions.

Yeah, I posted that half tongue in cheek, but part is kind of concerned about the long term effects of this.

Primary indications are that it is not all that bad, he wasnt out cold which is definitely a good thing in these kind of incidents. Hope he gets back for the quarter finals.Kind of makes me wish the Leafs didnt expose their top talent to these kind of tourneys, there are some real goons on some of these teams.

This actually has very little bearing on the recovery period for concussions. The bottom line principle is that you avoid all activity until the symptoms resolve. Having fewer symptoms is a good thing in the sense that might allow recovery physio to be implemented sooner but mild traumatic injury can still lead to weeks of recovery and I have seen more than a few athletes who get knocked out, wind up getting multiple CT scans and end up back to baseline within a week.

Primary indications are that it is not all that bad, he wasnt out cold which is definitely a good thing in these kind of incidents. Hope he gets back for the quarter finals.Kind of makes me wish the Leafs didnt expose their top talent to these kind of tourneys, there are some real goons on some of these teams.

Actually, loss of conscious is really a non-factor when it comes to brain injuries. I hope for Nylander he's okay and can get back in the tournament in short order.

Primary indications are that it is not all that bad, he wasnt out cold which is definitely a good thing in these kind of incidents. Hope he gets back for the quarter finals.Kind of makes me wish the Leafs didnt expose their top talent to these kind of tourneys, there are some real goons on some of these teams.

Actually, loss of conscious is really a non-factor when it comes to brain injuries. I hope for Nylander he's okay and can get back in the tournament in short order.

Does anyone think that Gardiner's concussion impacted his development? Would he have been a more dynamic offensive d-man now if he hadn't gotten run the way he did?

This is a bit spooky, seems Nylander has been spotted having lunch in the hotel resto and looked fine and now this http://www.thestar.com/sports/2015/12/31/sweden-abruptly-cancels-news-conference-in-nylander-injury-mystery.html

I wouldn't be surprised if the Leafs found out he was going to speak at the press conference and sent an e-mail saying "yeah, that's not happening".

As for him being able to have lunch at a restaurant, well I'm not exactly sure what's spooky about that.

From the article:

Quote

Feltenmark added it was the Swedish team’s decision — and not Nylander’s nor the Maple Leafs — to cancel Nylander’s participation.

My guess is that he's not progressing quite as much as they had hoped, and they suddenly realized that putting him in front of all that media when he's not 100% is a bad idea for him, for the team, for the country's hockey program, etc.

“He’s feeling fine, but we made a late decision about him not attending this media conference,” Bergsten said. “It’s more about the attention. We called this press conference to clear things up a bit, but we decided late that William, we would like to protect him a bit.”

Bergsten didn’t say what they were protecting him from.

From the unfounded, obtrusive, and gratuitous speculation which is The Star's stock in trade?

“He’s feeling fine, but we made a late decision about him not attending this media conference,” Bergsten said. “It’s more about the attention. We called this press conference to clear things up a bit, but we decided late that William, we would like to protect him a bit.”

Bergsten didn’t say what they were protecting him from.

From the unfounded, obtrusive, and gratuitous speculation which is The Star's stock in trade?

Corey Pronman with notes on how some of the Leafs did at the WJC. Kapanen and Marner were both listed as "standouts", Timashov as a "surprise", and Nylander as a "disappointment"

Quote

Kasperi Kapanen, RW, Toronto Maple Leafs

Kapanen's point totals weren't too gaudy (Golden Goal notwithstanding), but I was thoroughly impressed by his performance at the tournament. He was constantly making plays with the puck, dazzling with his speed and skill, but it seemed as if every chance he set up ended up right at the goaltender or getting some bad break. Kapanen is by no means a perfect player -- several NHL scouts I've talked to this season have criticized his play off the puck at times in the AHL -- but he can show dynamic talent.

Mitch Marner, C, Toronto Maple Leafs

Marner was a little up and down at the tournament, but in totality he played very well. His skill level is rare, making the kind of plays around the puck you don't often see out of the typical "high-skill" forwards. He was caught trying to do a little too much at times, and could have been a little better off the puck, but overall he created space for scoring chances, got pucks to the net and was a slippery as an eel to check (I've never held an eel, but I've heard they're quite slippery).

Dmytro Timashov, LW, Toronto Maple Leafs

Timashov was not expected to have a huge role with this year's team. In fact, he was slated as a third-line player to start the tournament. However, injuries and other players not performing up to expectations led to increased ice time and responsibility, and he continued to play well. Timashov was Sweden's most dangerous forward in the open ice, displaying high-end offensive hockey sense and hands to create plenty of scoring chances. His diminutive size and lackluster skating could get exposed at times, but overall, he was dangerous and confident with the puck on his stick.

William Nylander, C, Toronto Maple Leafs

He only scored one point in the tournament. What a bum. [Editor's note: Nylander was shut down after sustaining a head injury in Sweden's first game.]

I confess, I see something like this and I have to admit I don't entirely understand how junior teams work.

It's quite odd because Quebec is only a few points behind Shawnigan in their division, but they are both in probably the weakest division in the Q. I wonder if Quebec has decided they don't have a championship calibre team and thus are selling, it'd be a smart management move.

Connor Garland drafted 5th round by the Yotes in the past draft is on pace for a 163 point season in the Q, having posted 137 in his draft year.

It should be pointed out that he was actually draft eligible in 2014, but wasn't selected. He scored 54 points in 51 games that season. So what he did as a 18-year old last season is pretty close to what Timashov is doing as a 18-year old this season.

His numbers are still definitely impressive, but there's a bit more context to look at.

I love watching Marner play because he has such an exciting element to his game. His combination of speed, hands and hockey IQ are so rare to find. He's incredibly elusive and creative while playing at a quick tempo, which is why I feel he can make the same elite skill plays at the NHL level and has the potential to be a star. Sure, he's not perfect, as his size and physical game can improve, but his defense isn't too much of a hole.

Nylander had been having one of the best seasons ever by a teenager in the AHL, but a swift blow to the head at the WJC has put question marks on his health for the rest of the season. When healthy, he's a filthy offensive weapon, with high-end if not elite speed, hands and passing skills; he has shown significant improvement on working to win battles and hold his defensive position, although that will never be his selling point.

Kapanen is by no means a perfect prospect. Several NHL scouts I've talked to this season can provide a list of things he can improve on away from the puck, such as his physical play. However, he is so dynamic, with so much offensive potential that it's hard to not be excited about him. Kapanen's speed and hands are top-end, and he can be so hard to contain coming through the neutral zone or when he gets the puck with space.

A late cut from Toronto's camp, Brown looked great to start his second AHL season, but an injury has kept him out since the early weeks. The report on him is pretty much the same one from the summer. He's a very intelligent two-way forward with decent-to-solid speed and hands, and a great work ethic. Stay tuned.

I love watching Marner play because he has such an exciting element to his game. His combination of speed, hands and hockey IQ are so rare to find. He's incredibly elusive and creative while playing at a quick tempo, which is why I feel he can make the same elite skill plays at the NHL level and has the potential to be a star. Sure, he's not perfect, as his size and physical game can improve, but his defense isn't too much of a hole.

Nylander had been having one of the best seasons ever by a teenager in the AHL, but a swift blow to the head at the WJC has put question marks on his health for the rest of the season. When healthy, he's a filthy offensive weapon, with high-end if not elite speed, hands and passing skills; he has shown significant improvement on working to win battles and hold his defensive position, although that will never be his selling point.

Kapanen is by no means a perfect prospect. Several NHL scouts I've talked to this season can provide a list of things he can improve on away from the puck, such as his physical play. However, he is so dynamic, with so much offensive potential that it's hard to not be excited about him. Kapanen's speed and hands are top-end, and he can be so hard to contain coming through the neutral zone or when he gets the puck with space.

A late cut from Toronto's camp, Brown looked great to start his second AHL season, but an injury has kept him out since the early weeks. The report on him is pretty much the same one from the summer. He's a very intelligent two-way forward with decent-to-solid speed and hands, and a great work ethic. Stay tuned.

Sounds like he'll play tomorrow. Next weekend might be a reasonable return date for Nylander too. He's practicing with the team now in a non-contact jersey. Not like the Marlies even need these guys though.

Sounds like he'll play tomorrow. Next weekend might be a reasonable return date for Nylander too. He's practicing with the team now in a non-contact jersey. Not like the Marlies even need these guys though.

Yeah, they really don't but it's good to see him back, Nylander too hopefully.

I think next year will be much better for the Leafs with all these great prospects coming up. Nylander and Marner should both make a big impact. Both should score a lot of goals and that's what the Leafs are missing right now. Plus they should have another high draft pick after this season plus the picks they got from Pittsburgh for Kessel. Things are finally starting to look better in Leaf Land. I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. There is still a long way to go if they want to be a true contender for the cup though.

Oh man that's pretty bad. That was a gamble on behalf of the Leafs. I guess they just really wanted rid of Kessel. I think it was a good move for the Leafs in retrospect. I know Babcock is largely responsible for the team's turnaround this season but I just know that Kessel would have thrown a huge monkey wrench into the plan. I think he was a bad influence on Kadri in particular.

Andrew Nielsen is handily leading the WHL in defenseman scoring, with 12-39-51 in 48 games. Next best in the WHL is 44 points. In no small part because his Lethbridge team is by far the highest scoring team in the league, but still good to see.

And Dmytro Timashov still leads the Quebec Remparts in scoring, despite having only played 29 games for them this year, picking up 53 points. The guy one point behind him has played 47 games.

Andrew Nielsen is handily leading the WHL in defenseman scoring, with 12-39-51 in 48 games. Next best in the WHL is 44 points. In no small part because his Lethbridge team is by far the highest scoring team in the league, but still good to see.

And Dmytro Timashov still leads the Quebec Remparts in scoring, despite having only played 29 games for them this year, picking up 53 points. The guy one point behind him has played 47 games.

Although Timashov got traded to Shawinigan where he has 11 points in 7 games.

Andrew Nielsen is handily leading the WHL in defenseman scoring, with 12-39-51 in 48 games. Next best in the WHL is 44 points. In no small part because his Lethbridge team is by far the highest scoring team in the league, but still good to see.

And Dmytro Timashov still leads the Quebec Remparts in scoring, despite having only played 29 games for them this year, picking up 53 points. The guy one point behind him has played 47 games.

Although Timashov got traded to Shawinigan where he has 11 points in 7 games.

Andrew Nielsen is handily leading the WHL in defenseman scoring, with 12-39-51 in 48 games. Next best in the WHL is 44 points. In no small part because his Lethbridge team is by far the highest scoring team in the league, but still good to see.

And Dmytro Timashov still leads the Quebec Remparts in scoring, despite having only played 29 games for them this year, picking up 53 points. The guy one point behind him has played 47 games.

Although Timashov got traded to Shawinigan where he has 11 points in 7 games.

Great news on Nylander, probably erred on the side of caution for some time now. Hopefully he will not have a repeat incident.

They absolutely erred on the side of caution when it came to his return trip to Toronto. Everything else was pretty much just textbook concussion recovery. They went by the book and didn't advance him to activity until he was symptom free.

It's interesting though. There is some literature in younger kids that getting them involved in very light activity post-concussion isn't the worst thing for them. I personally don't use that philosophy when I see kids after head injuries but there are some studies out there that advocate very light non-contact activity isn't the worst thing after the 48 hour quiet period.

As for Nylander and playing/not playing in the medal round. That was always speculation. When he had symptoms still he was never going to play. A typical 7-10 day recovery period would have had him ready to play in the medal round if he recovered right away and if he was symptom free that likely would have happened. It likely had absolutely nothing to do with the Leafs making that decision for Sweden.

It's interesting though. There is some literature in younger kids that getting them involved in very light activity post-concussion isn't the worst thing for them. I personally don't use that philosophy when I see kids after head injuries but there are some studies out there that advocate very light non-contact activity isn't the worst thing after the 48 hour quiet period.

There was talk about Nylander being on the exercise bike bike a few days after the hit.

Great news on Nylander, probably erred on the side of caution for some time now. Hopefully he will not have a repeat incident.

They absolutely erred on the side of caution when it came to his return trip to Toronto. Everything else was pretty much just textbook concussion recovery. They went by the book and didn't advance him to activity until he was symptom free.

It's interesting though. There is some literature in younger kids that getting them involved in very light activity post-concussion isn't the worst thing for them. I personally don't use that philosophy when I see kids after head injuries but there are some studies out there that advocate very light non-contact activity isn't the worst thing after the 48 hour quiet period.

As for Nylander and playing/not playing in the medal round. That was always speculation. When he had symptoms still he was never going to play. A typical 7-10 day recovery period would have had him ready to play in the medal round if he recovered right away and if he was symptom free that likely would have happened. It likely had absolutely nothing to do with the Leafs making that decision for Sweden.

Great news on Nylander, probably erred on the side of caution for some time now. Hopefully he will not have a repeat incident.

They absolutely erred on the side of caution when it came to his return trip to Toronto. Everything else was pretty much just textbook concussion recovery. They went by the book and didn't advance him to activity until he was symptom free.

It's interesting though. There is some literature in younger kids that getting them involved in very light activity post-concussion isn't the worst thing for them. I personally don't use that philosophy when I see kids after head injuries but there are some studies out there that advocate very light non-contact activity isn't the worst thing after the 48 hour quiet period.

As for Nylander and playing/not playing in the medal round. That was always speculation. When he had symptoms still he was never going to play. A typical 7-10 day recovery period would have had him ready to play in the medal round if he recovered right away and if he was symptom free that likely would have happened. It likely had absolutely nothing to do with the Leafs making that decision for Sweden.

Great news on Nylander, probably erred on the side of caution for some time now. Hopefully he will not have a repeat incident.

They absolutely erred on the side of caution when it came to his return trip to Toronto. Everything else was pretty much just textbook concussion recovery. They went by the book and didn't advance him to activity until he was symptom free.

It's interesting though. There is some literature in younger kids that getting them involved in very light activity post-concussion isn't the worst thing for them. I personally don't use that philosophy when I see kids after head injuries but there are some studies out there that advocate very light non-contact activity isn't the worst thing after the 48 hour quiet period.

As for Nylander and playing/not playing in the medal round. That was always speculation. When he had symptoms still he was never going to play. A typical 7-10 day recovery period would have had him ready to play in the medal round if he recovered right away and if he was symptom free that likely would have happened. It likely had absolutely nothing to do with the Leafs making that decision for Sweden.

Keefe says Nylander is likely to return in one of their two games this coming weekend.

He's 8 points behind the AHL scoring lead with 32 games left to play. He's trailing guys who have played 13-16 more games than he has. Assuming he can resume his season scoring rate of 1.26PPG, he's likely got just enough time and games left to still win the scoring crown, though it'll likely be close.

Andrew Nielsen is handily leading the WHL in defenseman scoring, with 12-39-51 in 48 games. Next best in the WHL is 44 points. In no small part because his Lethbridge team is by far the highest scoring team in the league, but still good to see.

And Dmytro Timashov still leads the Quebec Remparts in scoring, despite having only played 29 games for them this year, picking up 53 points. The guy one point behind him has played 47 games.

Although Timashov got traded to Shawinigan where he has 11 points in 7 games.

Yeah, I failed to mention that. I had been looking up his stats to see how he was doing and was amused to see he was still leading the Remparts despite getting traded and playing in the WJC.

when I start to think what we have seen in Nylander, Brown, Kapanen, Leipsic, Timashov and this kid: http://www.pensionplanpuppets.com/twigs/2016/1/28/10863912/leafs-prospect-andreas-johsnon-with-exciting-game-winnerWith a top 4 pick this draft, it makes me very excited to think about the future with Babs to lead these kids.

It really bothers me when people say "not a good look" for this team or that. I don't know why but it does. I feel like it's a way for the author to subtly try to make whatever they are referring to worse in a broader scope, like the Leafs organization as a whole needs to wear this one.

Andreas Johnson dishing it to Kristian Vesalainen (http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=222125) (Draft eligible 2017), who is so surprised the pass actually made it through that he shanked the finish.

The "free wallet". Brian Burke popularized the phrase in the hockey world in the midst of his tenure with the Maple Leafs, to signify young, unrestricted free agent prospects added to the team without having to give up any form of compensation. The premise was sensible, even if most of his wallets turned out to have been empty. After all, why wouldn't you want to stock your cupboards up with as many potential NHLers as possible?

The hockey world stretches across many leagues in many countries, and in those leagues, you'll find a ton of players that are free to be picked off by NHL teams. Most aren't worth the aggravation, but every so often, somebody sticks out and catches the eye of the rest of the world.

But what if I told you that the best of these thousands of players isn't getting even the slightest bit of attention and that he's hidden in plain sight? Enter Anatoly Golyshev.

Golyshev is a 21-year-old winger born in Perm, Russia. If his name sounds familiar to you, that's because he's played in Toronto before as a member of Russia's 2015 World Junior Team, on a roster that included Toronto Marlies defenceman and Leafs prospect Rinat Valiev. He wasn't particularly notable, however; head coach Valeri Bragin was far from a fan of his, limiting his minutes and declaring that he didn't have much of a chance of becoming a regular professional player.

It was a weird statement, given that he was already well on his way. He was 11th in MHL (Russia's top junior league) scoring as a 17-turned-18-year-old in 2012/13 and was in the midst of his second KHL season. While he wasn't lighting up the league, he was doing more than most teenagers. Despite playing 13 minutes night, he managed 19 points in 44 games; good for the eighth-best scoring rate by a 19-year-old in the KHL. Most of the players above him have turned out pretty good; Evgeny Kuznetsov, Nail Yakupov (lockout year), Artemi Panarin, and Vladamir Tarasenko were the lines he was chasing. It was only a matter of time before Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg, who's system he had been in for several years, would finally give him a chance at being a star.

This year, they increased his minutes and threw him into offensive situations. In an even bolder move, they also named him alternate captain. Let me tell you, did all of it ever pay off.

Just for illustration, they'd probably carry an extra D instead of 3 forwards, yadda, but with signing those three and dropping all ufa's ( and buying out Cowen ) they'd have around 5 mil in cap space without engaging LTIR coverage. The Leafs could really wheel and deal with that kind of flex, maybe a bit more if the cap doesn't remain static. I figure 10 mil between Kadri and Rielly is fair. Carrick, Corrado and Sparks probably get a little more, I didn't adjust for them, also that's with Brown, Leivo, Leipsic and Marincin in the minors and I traded Holland etc. for magic beans.

He mentioned that Marner would be the 13th forward and that the Leafs would need to find room for him if he needs more playing time. Also said they'd likely keep him until at least the World Juniors and then potentially make a decision about sending him back afterward, like the Oilers did with Draisaitl. All speculative at this point though of course.

Some trades at the draft or packages including our existing UFA vets would open up spots for Marner, Brown.

I personally wouldn't mind running even 10 kids next year if we can cleanly clear out the vets we don't need. The benefit of pulling in Nylander, Carrick, and Sparks for the final stretch is that they wouldn't really be rookies going into next year. Soshnikov and Hyman will have that benefit as well seeing as how Lupul and JvR are done for the year, and Froese and PAP are still out.

I'm also not worried about the Edmonton rebuild issue of having too many kids in the lineup; that situation was very different in its lack of structure and support systems on and off the team for the kids. Here, even vets are getting skating lessons.

I personally wouldn't mind running even 10 kids next year if we can cleanly clear out the vets we don't need.

I dunno. I love the idea of just throwing the Marlies out there next season, but I think it's good to have a bit of a veteran presence, and it would likely be more beneficial for some of the kids to be playing top minutes at the AHL level than 3rd or 4th line duty in the NHL. There also has to be some form of internal competition for icetime throughout the season to keep players working hard - there has to be some sort of structure there.

I personally wouldn't mind running even 10 kids next year if we can cleanly clear out the vets we don't need.

I dunno. I love the idea of just throwing the Marlies out there next season, but I think it's good to have a bit of a veteran presence, and it would likely be more beneficial for some of the kids to be playing top minutes at the AHL level than 3rd or 4th line duty in the NHL. There also has to be some form of internal competition for icetime throughout the season to keep players working hard - there has to be some sort of structure there.

On the whole, I agree with you. Guys like Kapanen, Lindberg, and Bibeau could use time as the #1s of their respective positions next season in the AHL.

I'm thinking more along the lines of players who a) have nothing left to prove in the AHL: Nylander, Hyman, Soshnikov, C. Carrick, Leipsic; and b) are at the point in their development curve that it is make or break: Leivo, S. Carrick, Percy.

If we pick top 3, that guy (Matthew/Laine/Puljujarvi) is almost a shoo-in for the NHL having all played (and excelled) against men in their respective leagues. Add Marner, who really can't go anywhere else. That's already 10 before you fill in gaps with guys like Loov, Valiev, Sparks, or pickups like Zaitsev. Fortunately, in that list of 10-12ish players, most have had, or will have had a good look in the NHL, with only a small handful of true rookies to shepherd.

How many character veterans does a team that's not expected to reach the playoffs really need when there is also Babcock (and Lou) at the helm, and super-skilled prime time players like Kadri and Rielly toeing the company line? I'm thinking 4-5 would be sufficient: Laich, Lupul, Hunwick, and Robidas.

I don't know if I'd call Laine and Puljujarvi shoo-ins for the NHL next season, at least not with the Leafs. The fact that they're being drafted out of Europe means they can play in the AHL immediately (Matthews can too, but obviously won't). So if they're being developed by the Leafs I wouldn't be surprised if they at least start with the Marlies.

I don't know if I'd call Laine and Puljujarvi shoo-ins for the NHL next season, at least not with the Leafs. The fact that they're being drafted out of Europe means they can play in the AHL immediately (Matthews can too, but obviously won't). So if they're being developed by the Leafs I wouldn't be surprised if they at least start with the Marlies.

That crossed my mind too (and it would be nice for Kapanen and whoever centres that line). It's still 9 players who probably should get NHL looks in a year that doesn't matter.

The Marlies are also looking at another pretty big injection of youth next season. I mentioned potentially Laine and Puljujarvi, but there's also: Timashov, Dermott, Nielsen, and Johnson. I believe Bracco would be eligible to play in the AHL too but he'll probably be sent back to the OHL for another season.

There will be a lot of young players/kids in the lineup next year, but some of the guys people are penciling in to the roster might not quite be ready to be full-time NHLers yet. There's no reason to just push kids into the lineup to jsut have them there. The guys that are ready need to be there. The guys that aren't need to be somewhere else - and that probably includes guys like Brown, Kapanen, etc., who might be ready, but aren't quite as advanced as Nylander, Shoshnikov, etc.

I dunno. I love the idea of just throwing the Marlies out there next season, but I think it's good to have a bit of a veteran presence, and it would likely be more beneficial for some of the kids to be playing top minutes at the AHL level than 3rd or 4th line duty in the NHL. There also has to be some form of internal competition for icetime throughout the season to keep players working hard - there has to be some sort of structure there.

I really only think that's true if the players aren't yet capable of playing a 3rd or 4th line role with the Leafs. Otherwise it's tough to argue that players wouldn't learn more with the big club getting coached by Babcock.

Keep in mind that we're not talking about old time 4th lines here. Against Buffalo the 4th line got nearly 12 minutes of ice time. That's a pretty regular shift. So long as players are capable of contributing while here and there's room to reward good play with advancement(and "what will we do with all of these players who are clearly first liners?" is not a problem the Leafs are likely to have next year) then I really think the NHL is the best place to develop talented young players.

I was able to get free Marlie tickets for Friday April 29, 2016. I figured someone on here would want them. 2 seats: Section 114, Row R, seat 11 & 12. Let me know if you want them and I will transfer them to you. A $10 value per ticket.

This is obviously for players that aren't already OHL/WHL/QMJHL players, but what are the rules for foreign players in terms of OHL eligibility? Are they like UFAs?

Depends on whether or not they were selected in the various CHL drafts. Pinnich was selected by London in the OHL Priority draft, rather than it being a concerted effort by the Leafs. Otherwise, you'd have to think Bracco would have ended up there, as well.

Players that aren't drafted in any of the junior drafts are like UFAs, but, it's rare that those players would be selected in NHL drafts. Players with potential to be drafted by NHL teams that have committed to NCAA programs or are definitely staying in Europe until they go pro in North America generally get drafted by junior teams at some point.

I was just reading an article on JJ Puccinich and that after BU, he went to play for the Knights.

It made me wonder if the Leafs are going to feed further prospects through the Knights as kind of a developmental thing.

This is obviously for players that aren't already OHL/WHL/QMJHL players, but what are the rules for foreign players in terms of OHL eligibility? Are they like UFAs?

I'm pretty sure that's not the case. In the past when I've read about NCAA players considering the OHL they've always made reference to one team or another having their rights. Bracco, for instance, was pretty clearly having to choose between College and Kitchener.

This is obviously for players that aren't already OHL/WHL/QMJHL players, but what are the rules for foreign players in terms of OHL eligibility? Are they like UFAs?

Depends on whether or not they were selected in the various CHL drafts. Pinnich was selected by London in the OHL Priority draft, rather than it being a concerted effort by the Leafs. Otherwise, you'd have to think Bracco would have ended up there, as well.

Players that aren't drafted in any of the junior drafts are like UFAs, but, it's rare that those players would be selected in NHL drafts. Players with potential to be drafted by NHL teams that have committed to NCAA programs or are definitely staying in Europe until they go pro in North America generally get drafted by junior teams at some point.

Got it. I didn't know he was already selected by the Knights, so that pretty much kills my theory right there.

I was just reading an article on JJ Puccinich and that after BU, he went to play for the Knights.

It made me wonder if the Leafs are going to feed further prospects through the Knights as kind of a developmental thing.

This is obviously for players that aren't already OHL/WHL/QMJHL players, but what are the rules for foreign players in terms of OHL eligibility? Are they like UFAs?

I'm pretty sure that's not the case. In the past when I've read about NCAA players considering the OHL they've always made reference to one team or another having their rights. Bracco, for instance, was pretty clearly having to choose between College and Kitchener.

While his Erie coaches work on certain elements of Dermott's game, he is also getting no shortage of feedback from management in Toronto.

"Yeah, they came down here once to work with me on skills stuff, but they usually just send me text messages after games, you know, maybe ream me out a bit," he says with a genuine laugh. "They watch a lot of video."

[...]

Although he is emphatic that his mind is entirely focused on London's current playoff run and not on what may lie ahead with the Toronto Maple Leafs' organization, Marner did allow that he felt he has made good progress so far this season on his defensive play.

"Yeah, I feel like I'm getting better at that," he begins, " ... but I want to keep getting more reliable," he quickly adds, suggesting he understands how much work he still has to do in order to become a regular on the Leafs' roster. "I feel like the last couple months [in particular], I've really worked hard, and I feel like I'm getting better."

To anyone watching his play closely, this is an entirely accurate statement. Marner's defensive awareness in all three zones has dramatically improved this season, and despite the fact that he plays right wing, he is often the first man on his line to fall back to cover a defender, provide backside pressure, and even to swoop low and recover a puck for a besieged defender. Moreover, he reads plays so well that he can anticipate where the puck will be well before it gets there, helping him break up plays well before they become dangerous.

Despite the party going on around him, Marner answers every question thrown his way with the same level head and even tone. Like Dermott, he is patient, and waits until everyone's questions have been answered before rejoining his team.

For Leafs' fans, it has to be reassuring to hear that the Leafs are so involved in the development of their OHL prospects, but it's also worth noting that in addition to developing as players on the ice, all signs point to them developing as professionals off the ice as well.

And from the comments:

Quote

[Marner]’s excellent. He plays every inch of the ice, with or without the puck, and he’s a kingpin of every single power play and penalty kill. At the beginning of the season, the main knock on him was his defensive game, but I think he’s surpassed even Strome in that regard at this point. Marner will never lay big hits, but he’s so, so smart on the ice that he doesn’t need to – at least, not at the OHL level – in order to strip guys of the puck and protect it well. A year ago, I would have wanted to draft Strome. Now? I think I’m happier with Marner. Of course, maybe in a year or two my choice would be different again, but for now, Marner looks like a gem.

Shawinigan and Timashov avoided elimination tonight with a 6-4 win over Rouyn-Noranda. Timashov picked up a goal and 2 assists. He sits 3rd in playoff scoring with 28 points in 20 games. 3rd in goal scoring too with 13.

The Toronto Maple Leafs have underwent a tremendous organizational overhaul in the past 18 months, and, as a result, the team’s prospect group is one of the best in the NHL. They’ll add to their already-impressive group in the upcoming draft, where they currently own 12 picks.

Because of the amount of trades and new prospects in the organization there has been a lot of movement in the Maple Leafs Top 20 prospects, though the Top 3 remains the same.